WTA considers allowing players to use data on court

The WTA is considering allowing players to use real-time data collected by its technology partner, SAP, during matches. WTA coaches are currently able to receive post-match point-by-point analysis, and the technology is said to be fast enough that it can be delivered nearly instantaneously to them by its mobile application.

The WTA allows on-court coaching, so if the tour approves of the proposed legislation, players will be able to see data with their coaches, which would be a first in the sport. If it passes the WTA's Board of Directors, SAP and the WTA administration have agreed not to use the innovation until at least 2015.

“We are looking to work with the WTA to roll that out to the athletes and the coaches with on-court coaching,” SAP solution architect, Jenni Lewis said at the Brisbane International. “At the moment there isn’t a rule that allows us to walk out on court with a piece of technology for the coach to be able to track it, but that's one of our strategies to work with the sport and governing bodies and the athletes themselves to be able to offer the insight; to be able to see visually what is going on.”